Pune: Cyber Fraudsters Dupe Citizens of ₹97.76 Lakh Through Multiple Scams

Pune continues to witness a surge in cybercrime cases, with fraudsters adopting new tricks to lure citizens into parting with their hard-earned money. In the latest incidents, scammers have cheated several people—including senior citizens and youths—of a total of ₹97.76 lakh by offering share-market investments, work-from-home opportunities, and by issuing threats of legal action.

Senior Citizen Loses ₹29.69 Lakh in Share Market Scam

A senior citizen from Katraj was duped of ₹29.69 lakh after being promised high returns through stock market investments. The fraudsters first asked him to invest a small amount and later showed fake returns to gain his trust. Believing the scheme to be genuine, he invested more money. Once the deposits were made, the scammers switched off their phones.

A case has been registered at Bharati Vidyapeeth Police Station, and Senior Police Inspector Rahul Khilare is investigating.

Two More Victims Targeted With Investment Scam

In Kalepadal, a young man lost ₹33.12 lakh after falling for a similar share market investment trap. He has filed a complaint at the Kalepadal Police Station, and the case is being probed by Crime Branch Inspector Amar Kalange.

Another youth from Bibwewadi was cheated of ₹4 lakh in the same manner. The investigation is underway under Crime Branch Inspector Suraj Bendre.

Work-from-Home Scam Costs Youth ₹11.35 Lakh

A youth from Mahatma Phule Peth was defrauded of ₹11.35 lakh after cybercriminals offered him a work-from-home task with attractive returns. The victim initially received small payments for completing tasks, which convinced him to invest more money. Once the fraud became clear, he approached the police. Crime Branch Inspector Sharmila Sutar is handling the investigation.

Threat Scam Targets Senior Citizen

In another incident, a senior citizen from Kondhwa was cheated of ₹19.60 lakh after receiving a threatening message claiming that his bank account was being used for illegal “black money” transactions. Intimidated by warnings of action from agencies like the ED, NCB, and CBI, the victim followed the fraudsters’ instructions and transferred the money.

He lodged a complaint at the Kondhwa Police Station, and Senior Police Inspector Kumar Ghadge is investigating.

Rising Trend of Threat-Based Scams

Police said that over the past few days, there has been a rise in cases where senior citizens are scared into believing they are under investigation by national agencies. The fraudsters exploit fear and confusion to extort large sums of money.

Authorities have urged citizens to be cautious, avoid responding to unknown calls or messages, and verify any claims related to investments, job offers, or legal action. They also encourage victims to approach the police immediately without hesitation.